Leave Quote by Louise Bogan
““Leave-Taking" I do not know where either of us can turn Just at first, waking from the sleep of each other. I do not know how we can bear The river struck by the gold plummet of the moon, Or many trees shaken together in the darkness. We shall wish not to be alone And that love were not dispersed and set free— Though you defeat me, And I be heavy upon you. But like earth heaped over the heart Is love grown perfect. Like a shell over the beat of life Is love perfect to the last. So let it be the same Whether we turn to the dark or to the kiss of another; Let us know this for leavetaking, That I may not be heavy upon you, That you may blind me no more. Originally published in Poetry, August 1922.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: "Leave-Taking", published in Poetry, August 1922
Love is portrayed as a heavy, earth‑like presence that both binds and frees, enduring through darkness and intimacy.
In simple terms: Love is heavy yet freeing.
Key Takeaway
Accept love’s weight and freedom.
Themes
love
loss
connection
acceptance
Mood
somber
contemplative
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- relationships
- grief counseling
- creative writing
Key Concepts
Modernist
symbolism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance love’s weight with its freedom?
- When does love become a burden?
A Different Perspective
Love can become oppressive if unbalanced.
